$7,500 Fine Issued as Forest Dept. Cracks Down on Illegal Logging

The Forest Department has reported a series of enforcement actions across the country that resulted in one conviction and multiple ongoing prosecutions for illegal logging and unlawful possession of forest produce.

In the Orange Walk District, Forest Department officers, working with rangers from the Programme for Belize and the Belize Defence Force, intercepted five men in the Shipyard area on January 9. The men were found with 31 mahogany logs but could not produce valid permits authorising the harvest or possession of the timber.

They were arrested and charged with unlawful possession of Forest Produce. The case has been adjourned, and the confiscated logs remain in the custody of the Forest Department pending the court’s decision.

Two days later, on January 11, police in Caye Caulker searched a 25-foot vessel named ‘Surveyor’ and discovered 25 palm logs, each measuring approximately 16 feet in length. Authorities said the vessel did not have a forest permit or a seaworthy certificate.

Three men were detained in the case. Ronal Noe Martinez, Donald Guevara, and Johan Penner. Penner pleaded guilty in court and was fined BZ$7,500 plus court costs, payable by December 2027. 

If he fails to pay, he faces one year in prison. He is also expected to face additional charges from the Belize Port Authority.